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On The Mend

On The Mend

75 episodes — Page 1 of 2

Mental Health, Grief, Addiction & Recovery: A Community Q&A

May 11, 20261h 2m

Things Men Don't Say Out Loud

May 8, 202658 min

Roy Stride (Scouting for Girls) Admits Alcohol Problem, Anxiety and Recovery Journey

May 4, 202657 min

GRIEF LED ME TO ALCOHOL | Sky Sports' Simon Thomas

Apr 27, 202656 min

Nobody Knew I Was Going To Rehab | Lulu’s Secret Addiction Story

Apr 23, 20269 min

Arsenal Captain Tony Adams: Giving Up, Surviving Recovery and Reaching 30 Years Sober

Apr 20, 20261h 3m

10 Minute Mend: Richard Madeley Opens Up on Step-Dad Life, & Blended Family with Judy Finnigan

Apr 16, 20268 min

What It’s REALLY Like Being The Child Of An Alcoholic | Vicky Pattison

Apr 13, 202649 min

10 Minute Mend: I Replaced Alcohol With This

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A special golfing and sobriety chat this week brings us into the life of Peter “Tubes” Dale, who turned to golf as a way to keep up socialisation with his friends after making the brave decision to give up alcohol and stop drinking. In this episode, he opens up about the moment when he decided to switch out alcohol for finding a hobby, how he landed on golf, and how having an addict's mentality is both a blessing and a curse.This is a grounded conversation about addiction, mental health, and a personalised, thoughtful approach to recovery - not as a straight line, but as something messy and ongoing.YOU CAN WATCH THE FULL EPISODE WITH TUBES HERE00:00 Best Day on the Course00:52 How Golf Replaced Drinking02:06 Everyone in Recovery Needs a Hobby03:05 Using Golf as an Excuse to Drink04:21 Becoming Obsessed with Golf05:02 The Addictive Personality Explained06:06 Why Golf Helps Mental Health07:25 Addiction vs Mental Health Differences08:18 Replacing Alcohol with Something Better10:01 Connection, Friendship and Staying SoberHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM20Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 9, 20269 min

S3 Ep 36Spencer Matthews: Drinking, Lying, and How Vogue Saved Him

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TV personality and endurance athlete Spencer Matthews joins Matt Willis to talk openly about how alcohol quietly took over his life, from waking up drunk and lying to the people closest to him, to feeling isolated, ashamed, and completely disconnected from the person he wanted to be.He shares how drinking stopped being social and became something he was doing alone, and the moment that forced him to confront what was really going on. There’s no neat turning point, just the realisation that something had to change.Spencer also reflects on channeling his addictive personality into endurance challenges, the structure that now keeps him on track, and the ongoing tension of replacing one obsession with another.This episode covers the following themes: addiction, shame, relationships, identity, recovery, discipline, and transformation.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Randox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randox-au2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 6, 202641 min

10 Minute Mend: Developing PTSD After the Military

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In this heartwarming conversation, former special forces soldier Jason Fox opens up about his experience with PTSD, depression, and chronic burnout after leaving the military. He shares the reality of hitting rock bottom, including a moment standing on the edge of a cliff, and the turning point that forced him to confront his mental health with honesty.The discussion explores how high-pressure environments can rewire the brain, why returning to “normal life” can feel so difficult, and how impulsive emotional moments can lead to dangerous decisions. Viewers will gain insight into concepts like operator syndrome, emotional control, and the hidden challenges many face after intense careers.This episode offers an honest look at mental health, recovery, and resilience, with practical takeaways around self-awareness, managing emotions, and the importance of speaking up before reaching breaking point.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 2, 20268 min

S3 Ep 35Were YOU parented by a narcissist? Kathleen Saxton helps you identify the traits

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This week’s guest is Kathleen Saxton, who dives deep into the complexities of narcissism, family dynamics, and the painful journey of healing from childhood wounds.Kathleen breaks down the three types of narcissists, ‘grandiose’, ‘covert’, and ‘malignant’, offering an eye-opening framework, particularly highlighting covert narcissists who use pity and victimhood for supply. She explores how children of narcissists often stop loving themselves, losing their sense of identity in the process, and how family roles like the golden child, scapegoat, and lost child perpetuate unhealthy patterns. Kathleen also explains why those raised by narcissistic parents tend to attract similar partners, as dysfunction feels like home.Through practical tools like the "empty chair technique" and her three-step recovery roadmap: accept, have compassion for yourself, and design your future, Kathleen offers actionable steps to begin healing. This episode covers the following themes: narcissism, family dynamics, identity, healing, boundaries, and self-compassion.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Randox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randox-au2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 30, 202652 min

S3 Ep 34Diagnosed with Autism at 40: Professor Green’s Story

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This week’s guest is Professor Green, who opens up about his journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth, and the ongoing process of learning from past mistakes.Professor Green shares his struggles with shame and addiction, discussing how he broke free from the cycle of destructive behavior by rejecting the people who kept him stuck. He talks about his late diagnosis of ADHD and autism, which helped him understand his challenges and stop masking his true self.He also discusses the power of taking ownership of his actions, the role of medication in his recovery, and his near-death experience with substance misuse. This episode covers the following themes: identity, shame, addiction, ADHD, autism, vulnerability, recovery, and transformation.Listen to Professor Green’s new single, “No Management”Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Saily 👉 Download SAILY in your app store and use our code mend at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/mendHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Randox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randox_au1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 23, 202636 min

S3 Ep 33Matt Willis Q&A: Addiction, Getting Sober and Facing Your Emotions

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Have you ever realised that the biggest obstacle to your growth might be you?In this solo episode, Matt Willis answers your questions and shares powerful moments from his personal journey through addiction, recovery, and the ongoing work of self-awareness. Matt talks about the emotional realisation he had when he understood he was the common denominator in all his drinking situations, and how being "emotionally young" in recovery has challenged him to confront feelings he once numbed with alcohol. He also shares the pivotal moment when Jack Osborne planted the seed for his decision to seek help and how rock bottom doesn’t always look like you’d expect. With practical recovery tools, including the "Fact or Thought" technique for managing negative self-talk, and the importance of self-compassion, Matt offers a raw and honest look at his journey. This episode is about embracing vulnerability, facing tough truths, and continuing to move forward, no matter how imperfect the process.This episode covers the following themes: addiction, sobriety, self-awareness, and personal growth.Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 16, 202652 min

S3 Ep 32How Addiction Destroyed My Family | Arron Crascall

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This week’s guest is Arron Crascall, who shares his raw journey from struggling with addiction and low self-esteem to finding hope and transformation through surrender and honesty.Arron talks about how he never felt comfortable in his own skin, always changing to fit in, and how his first drink at 17 gave him the feeling of being “alive” for the first time. He opens up about the long battle with alcohol, how he tried therapy, hypnotherapy, and changing environments, but nothing worked until he reached a breaking point, a family meal that made him realize he was about to lose everything. That moment became his turning point, and he found a higher power in a quiet voice telling him, “You ain’t gotta do this anymore, but you need help.”This episode dives into the transformative power of the 12-step program, how Arron’s practice of gratitude helped shift his mindset, and the struggles he still faces, including guilt for missing parts of his kids’ lives. This episode covers the following themes: addiction, identity, surrender, guilt, recovery, and helping others.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Saily 👉 Download SAILY in your app store and use our code mend at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/mendHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Randox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randox_au1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 9, 202656 min

S3 Ep 31Strictly's Amy Dowden: Recovering from Cancer, Sepsis and a Double Mastectomy

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This week’s guest is Amy Dowden, who shares her powerful journey through breast cancer, fertility struggles, and mental health challenges, a story of resilience that’s messy, ongoing, and real.Amy talks about returning to Strictly Come Dancing just months after chemotherapy, only to realise she was burying her trauma. When health complications forced her off the show, she hit rock bottom, lower than during her cancer treatment, but this became the turning point for true healing.She opens up about the hidden battles she faced: sepsis, fertility decisions just weeks after marriage, and the cruelty of online trolls. But through it all, Amy found unexpected perspective shifts, learning to live with Crohn’s disease without constant anxiety, and discovering that recovery isn’t solitary, it’s built on community and connection.Amy chose to share her journey publicly, not as a perfect survivor, but as someone still figuring it out. This episode is about falling apart, hitting rock bottom, and slowly finding your way forward through small wins, honesty, and refusing to face it alone.This episode covers the following themes: cancer, recovery, vulnerability, and strength.Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu are heading on tour as part of 'Amy and Carlos Reborn' later this year. To purchase tickets, click here: https://www.amyandcarlostour.co.uk/Get Amy's book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dancing-Rain-story-courage-resilience/dp/0349442045Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Randox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randoxhealth_au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 2, 202654 min

S3 Ep 30Biohacking Saved My Life: Davinia Taylor on Sobriety & Health

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This week’s guest is Davinia Taylor, who challenges the traditional narrative of addiction and opens up about her journey from shame and self-doubt to embracing recovery on her own terms.In this episode, Davinia talks candidly about her realisation that addiction isn’t always tied to trauma, and how understanding the biochemical and genetic basis of her struggle, low dopamine, ADHD, and even Viking ancestry, helped remove the shame she once carried. She reframes addiction from a moral failing to a biological reality, offering a powerful shift in perspective.Davinia also shares the truth about recovery: it’s messy, it’s imperfect, and it doesn’t always follow the rigid rules we’re told to follow. She opens up about the constant negotiation of active addiction and the exhaustion it creates, and the surprising discovery of true energy, not from alcohol, but through biohacking and ketones, which have become her source of fuel to live, not just survive.Honest, raw, and deeply human, Davinia’s story is about rebuilding beyond perfection and finding peace in being imperfectly present for the people who matter most.This episode covers the following themes: addiction, shame, self-acceptance, and vulnerability.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Randox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randoxhealth_au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 23, 202639 min

S3 Ep 29I Turned to It for the Wrong Reasons | Sam Ryder

This week’s guest is Sam Ryder, someone who knows the struggle of chasing a dream for years, only to face the crushing reality of near-misses and setbacks. For over 15 years, Sam toured the world in tiny vans, scraping by with borrowed hope, never knowing if success would come. But when the door finally cracked open, it did so with an unexpected, life-changing shift.In this episode, Sam talks candidly about the long grind and how he found peace with failure before success even arrived. He shares the moment he made peace with the idea of never “making it,” the power of redefining what success truly means, and how, after years of struggle, he embraced gratitude as his new driving force.This is a raw, honest conversation about the non-linear journey to success, the dangers of “okay jobs,” and why comfort can kill creativity. Sam reveals his decision to get sober and the importance of protecting his voice, his gift, while rejecting the toxic hustle culture that fuels so much of the music industry.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMRandox Health 👉 Take care of your health today and into the future. Save 20% on all health checks now with the code OTM20 at: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Randoxhealth_au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, 202637 min

S3 Ep 28Matt Willis: I Got Married Three Days After Rehab

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Recovery isn’t a straight line, and Matt Willis reflects openly on what that reality has meant for him.In this solo episode, Matt speaks candidly about addiction, recovery, and the long process of learning to live differently. He explores the moments that forced him to confront himself, the challenges of trying to change alone, and the ongoing work required to stay well.Rather than offering simple answers, Matt discusses the uncertainty, setbacks, and searching that shaped his recovery, alongside the role of responsibility, trust, and fatherhood in helping him find steadier ground.This is a thoughtful, honest conversation about resilience, accountability, and what it really means to commit to change, without shortcuts, and without pretending recovery is linear.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 202650 min

S3 Ep 27I Finally Quit Nicotine… Can I Keep It Up?

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This isn’t just a conversation, it’s a live experiment.TJ Power challenges Matt Willis in real time to face the invisible addictions quietly draining his energy and to decide, on camera, what he’s willing to let go of to feel fully alive again.From nicotine and endless scrolling to constant stimulation, Matt confronts habits he no longer enjoys but feels unable to escape. TJ also explains how these dopamine loops trap the brain, leaving us restless, flat, and disconnected from real fulfillment.The moment turns personal when Matt reflects on his children. Without planning or performance, he makes a decisive choice, throwing away his vapes and committing to quit on the spot. TJ lays out the truth: every habit is a trade, between short-term dopamine and the life you actually want to live.No polish, no easy answers, just an honest challenge to choose presence over numbness, freedom over avoidance, and courage over comfort.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 202634 min

S3 Ep 26Jason Fox: Living With PTSD and the Cost of Service

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When the structure that’s held your life together disappears, what are you left with?In this episode, Jason Fox talks about the moment everything collapsed after leaving the military, not gradually, but instantly. Twenty years of purpose, belonging, and identity ended overnight, and the relief he expected never came. Instead, he felt more broken than ever, realising too late that the thing he thought was damaging him had actually been keeping him afloat.Jason also speaks openly about how close he came to giving up, and the uncomfortable truth he had to face: he’d been going through the motions of getting help without fully believing he needed it. He reflects on how much of the stigma he feared came from inside his own head, and how convincing yourself you’re not allowed to struggle can be just as dangerous as the struggle itself.This conversation challenges the belief that strength means staying silent, and shows how vulnerability can be a source of freedom, not weakness.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 202638 min

S3 Ep 25What Actually Breaks Addiction: Neuroscientist Tj Power Explains

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This week’s guest is Tj Power, lead neuroscientist and founder of the DOSE Lab, who helps us understand what’s really happening in our brains when we feel overwhelmed, burnt out, glued to our phones, or stuck in patterns we can’t quite explain.In this episode, TJ breaks down mental health in a way that feels human, not clinical. He talks about why so many of us feel constantly on edge, how modern life quietly rewires our brains, and why willpower alone is rarely enough when you’re dealing with anxiety, compulsive behaviours, or emotional overload. Rather than offering quick fixes, TJ focuses on understanding, learning how your brain actually works, why certain patterns repeat, and how small, realistic changes can help you steady yourself again.This conversation is grounding and reassuring, for anyone realising that real change starts with understanding, not self-blame.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 20261h 12m

S3 Ep 24The Secret Addiction Lulu Hid for 60 Years

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This week’s guest is Lulu Kennedy-Cairns, a woman who has spent a lifetime living between two selves, and learning what it costs to keep parts of yourself hidden. Known to the world as Lulu, she grew up as “Marie”, a child shaped by chaos at home, silence, and shame, long before she was told she needed to become someone brighter, cleaner, and easier for the public to love.In this episode, Lulu speaks with striking honesty about learning to hide at a young age, carrying shame that was never really hers, and the confusion of trying to live up to an identity that didn’t fully fit. She also talks about alcohol, relapse, and the long road to recovery, including the relief of finally understanding addiction as an illness, not a personal failure. This is a conversation about recovery as connection, not perfection. About finding your tribe, telling the truth out loud, and discovering that vulnerability can be a strength, not a weakness.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 202648 min

S3 Ep 23How Tubes turned to Golf Life after alcohol addiction

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This week’s guest is Peter “Tubes” Dale, someone who knows how quickly things can unravel when drinking, shame, and identity start feeding off each other. Known publicly as the funny one, the lad who could always carry it, Tubes was privately stuck in a cycle of blackouts, panic, and self-loathing, watching the distance grow between who he was and the person he became when alcohol took over.In this episode, he pulls the curtain back. Tubes talks candidly about hating the version of himself that drank to excess, the fear of not knowing what he’d done or said, and the moment he realised he was heading towards losing his family if he didn’t stop. He opens up about relapse without excuses, the weight of shame he carried for years, and why choosing to speak honestly was the first step toward change.This is a grounded, human conversation about addiction, mental health, and recovery, not as a straight line, but as something messy and ongoing.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_heights_auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 202655 min

S3 Ep 22The Truth About Ruby Wax’s Mental Health Crash

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Ruby Wax has spent decades making people laugh, but this conversation is about what happens when the jokes stop working.In this episode, Ruby speaks with rare honesty about living with depression, relapse, and the exhausting work of trying to hold yourself together when your mind won’t cooperate. She talks about coming off antidepressants to explore psilocybin therapy and ending up in a mental health ward, the shame that can creep in when you “should” be better by now, and why mental illness doesn’t care whether you’re on holiday, winning awards, or doing everything “right.”Ruby also opens up about letting go of old identities, including the version of herself built for attention, validation, and success, and how terrifying it was to walk away from a huge TV career to start again. She describes fame as addictive, relapse as confusing, and recovery as anything but linear. This isn’t a polished guru’s guide or a neat redemption arc. It’s a conversation with someone still doing the work, falling over, starting again, laughing at herself, and telling the truth about how messy it all can be. Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_heights_auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 29, 202521 min

S3 Ep 21The ADHD Misdiagnosis That Changed Everything | Jordan Stephens

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This week on On The Mend, I’m sitting down with Jordan Stephens, someone who knows exactly how quickly life can unravel when addiction, shame, identity, and survival all get mixed together. From the outside, things looked great. Behind the scenes, Jordan was stuck in cycles that were blowing up his relationships and pulling him further away from the person he actually wanted to be. In this chat, Jordan takes all the armour off. He talks honestly about the chaos drugs brought into his life, what it was like growing up mixed race and constantly shape-shifting to fit in, and the moment he realised he couldn’t keep pretending he was fine. We get into ADHD, self-medication, the ego, the shame, all of it, but always with that warmth and humour that makes the hard stuff easier to hear. If you’ve ever struggled with identity, spiralled after a relapse, or felt like you’re still looking for your real self, this conversation won’t tell you how to live your life. But it will make you feel less alone while you figure it out.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 22, 202523 min

S3 Ep 20Roxie Nafousi: The missing piece in your manifestation

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Roxie Nafousi joins Matt for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about addiction, healing, and the long journey toward self-worth. She speaks candidly about how her search for confidence and belonging led her into a cycle of shame, isolation, and rock-bottom moments, and how she came to believe there was no way out.What makes Roxie’s story resonate is her understanding that struggle is universal. She explains that pain, addiction, and the search for meaning affect people from every background, and that recovery isn’t just about overcoming substance use, it’s about rebuilding your relationship with yourself.A turning point came when Roxie discovered manifestation as a tool for healing, not as a superficial trend but as a practice rooted in agency, responsibility, and self-belief. She talks about shifting out of a victim mindset, aligning her actions with her values, and letting go of what no longer served her.Roxie also highlights the role of compassion, the unconditional support of her family and partner, and the kindness she learned to extend to herself. With honesty and practical guidance, Roxie discusses gratitude, affirmations, and the importance of finding purpose through community and service.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AUHeights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM  Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 15, 202541 min

S3 Ep 19The Christmas That Made Me Go Sober | Scott Thomas

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This week’s guest is Scott Thomas, whose journey to sobriety has become a powerful example of how one person’s change can transform the lives of many. By being open about his struggles and creating a safe space for honest conversations, Scott has inspired friends, family, and even strangers, to confront their own challenges and pursue a different path.In this episode, Scott talks about the battle between his public persona and his true self. Despite the parties, fame, and fast-paced lifestyle, he felt empty and disconnected, hiding behind “Scotty Special” to win approval. His story is a candid look at the pressure to fit in, the cost of losing yourself, and the deep relief that comes from reclaiming your authenticity.Scott also dives into the importance of boundaries and finding your “why,” especially when it comes to sobriety. He explains how clarity, honesty, and a strong sense of purpose helped him stay committed, even when peer pressure and old habits pulled hard in the opposite direction.A raw and uplifting conversation about self-worth, transformation, and the ripple effect of living truthfully.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AU  Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM  London Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 8, 202549 min

S3 Ep 18How One Night at Home Changed Russell Kane's Life Forever

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This week’s guest is Russell Kane, the award-winning comedian and writer whose life and work span far beyond the stereotypes people often place on him. Despite growing up with expectations about who he should be and what his background meant for his future, Russell carved his own path, challenging labels, breaking cycles, and proving that your starting point doesn’t have to define your destination.In this episode, Russell talks about the power of self-love, the damage caused by negative self-talk, and how breaking free from internal and external limits is often the first step toward real change. He also highlights the impact of small, consistent actions, showing how incremental progress, not dramatic transformation, is what truly moves us forward.Through honest insights and thoughtful conversation, this episode offers a roadmap for anyone who’s ever felt boxed in by circumstance. Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference:https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AU  Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM  London Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-au Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 1, 20251h 5m

S3 Ep 17I’m a Celeb Changed Me - Matt Willis on the Secrets He Hid For Years

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In this solo episode, Matt Willis opens up about his past and the years spent in active addiction. He talks candidly about the contrast between public success and private struggle, the exhausting effort of keeping up appearances while quietly falling apart behind the scenes.Matt revisits memories that are often blurred or painful to recall, reflecting on how addiction affected his relationships, his sense of self, and his ability to truly enjoy the moments he worked so hard for. He speaks honestly about the toll of secrecy, the regrets and missed opportunities, and the moments that finally pushed him toward change.A raw, unfiltered look at memory, addiction, and the courage it takes to face your past in order to move forward.Simba mattresses 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AU  Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM  London Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-au Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 24, 202542 min

S3 Ep 16Rosie Jones: Being Disabled, Ridiculed and Attacked

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Comedian, writer and actress, Rosie Jones, brings her trademark honesty, humour, and heart to a conversation about difference, self-acceptance, and finding strength in vulnerability. She talks openly about what it means to feel out of place, the pressure to meet others’ expectations, and how she’s learned to stop comparing herself to anyone else’s version of success.Rosie doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff, she discusses facing negativity, choosing where to focus her energy, and the power of surrounding yourself with people who lift you up rather than drag you down. She also reflects on the importance of representation, using her voice to challenge stereotypes and show that no matter your background or circumstance, you can still thrive.This is an inspiring, funny, and deeply human conversation about embracing who you are, taking small steps forward, and finding joy and purpose along the way.Check out Rosie’s tour “I Can’t Tell What She’s Saying”. Tickets here: https://rosiejonescomedy.com/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Simba 👉Great recovery starts with great sleep. That’s why On The Mend is powered by Simba. Start your 200-night trial & experience the Simba difference: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM_Simba_AU London Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 17, 20251h 4m

S3 Ep 15Backstage with Busted vs McFly: Harry, Dougie & Matt Get Deep on Tour

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Recorded literally backstage, Matt Willis sits down with Harry Judd and Dougie Poynter for a candid, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation about life on the road, friendship, and everything in between.Between playful banter and a spontaneous “backstage set list” game, the trio open up about the chaos of touring, the lessons fame taught them, and how they’ve each learned to stay grounded through recovery, fatherhood, and music. There’s nostalgia, honesty, and plenty of laughter as they revisit wild early days, reflect on how their bands shaped them, and share what keeps them going now.It’s more than just a reunion, it’s a raw, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the lives of three friends who’ve grown up in the spotlight, stumbled, recovered, and learned to keep playing the music that connects them.Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM London Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-au Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 10, 202540 min

S3 Ep 14Calum Scott on Coming Out, Depression & Finding Peace

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Calum Scott joins Matt for a moving and honest conversation about the battles that often stay hidden behind success. From depression and body dysmorphia to self-acceptance and sexuality, Calum opens up about the moments that brought him to the edge, and the strength it took to rebuild.He also talks about the power of speaking openly, seeking support, and taking small steps toward healing, reminding us that recovery is never linear and there’s no single way to get through it. Calum’s story is a testament to patience, self-compassion, and the belief that even in the darkest times, hope can still grow.This is a heartfelt, powerful episode about finding light after pain, and learning to love who you are, one day at a time.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMLondon Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 3, 20251h 4m

S3 Ep 13Matt Willis: Taking Life In Recovery 1 Day at a Time

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In this solo episode, Matt Willis explores what it really means to control your own narrative. He opens up about moments in his life when others tried to define him, through fame, addiction, or public perception, and how losing control of his story left him feeling misunderstood and disconnected from who he truly was.Matt also shares personal experiences, including how winning I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! changed how the world saw him, and how he eventually reclaimed his identity through honesty, recovery, and storytelling. He reflects on lessons from past guests about ownership, self-compassion, and the power of rewriting your story from a place of truth.A candid and empowering conversation about taking back your story, letting go of shame, and choosing how you move forward, on your own terms.Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMLondon Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 27, 202525 min

S3 Ep 12Richard Madeley: Surviving the Headlines, Grief & a Career in TV

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This week’s guest is Richard Madeley, the broadcaster and writer whose career has spanned decades of conversations with people from all walks of life. Behind the fame and public recognition, Richard has faced his own personal challenges, including addiction, grief, family complexities, and the pressures of life in the spotlight.In this episode, Richard discusses the importance of authenticity and honest connection, reflecting on how setbacks and difficult experiences have shaped his outlook. From navigating public scrutiny to learning from mistakes, he also emphasises empathy, commitment, and the value of keeping perspective through life’s toughest moments.Through candid stories and heartfelt insights, this episode offers a window into the human side of fame, showing how honesty, humility, and self-reflection can guide us toward meaning, happiness, and resilience in everyday life.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMLondon Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 20, 202543 min

S3 Ep 11How to Make Social Media Work for You

Matt Willis goes beyond the surface of social media in this solo episode. He shares his honest experiences with the pressures, comparisons, and negativity that online life can bring, and how these challenges have affected his mental health and recovery.Rather than an anti-social media rant, Matt offers practical ways to stay mindful and intentional, setting boundaries, curating feeds, taking breaks, and pausing before reacting. He also reflects on the emotional toll of viral content, online debates, and the pressure to constantly stay informed.This episode is a candid exploration of how to engage with social media thoughtfully, protect your well-being, and maintain perspective in an ever-connected world.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 13, 202522 min

S3 Ep 10How to Train your Mind to Achieve Anything | Maya Raichoora Reveals the Mental Science

Author and mindset coach Maya Raichoora joins Matt to unpack the power of self-image, mindset, and transformation. She reveals why success often crumbles without inner change, and how becoming the person who deserves your goals is the key to making them stick.Maya also shares practical tools for growth, from tailoring goals to your unique wiring to her mantra of “train it till you trust it.” By consistently practicing your 2.0 self, you can rewire your brain for confidence, belief, and lasting achievement.An inspiring conversation about unlocking potential by shifting from self-sabotage to self-mastery.Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMLondon Nootropics 👉 Enjoy 20% off London Nootropics Adaptogenic Coffees with code ONTHEMEND here: https://highpfrmc.com/ldn-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 6, 202557 min

S3 Ep 9What’s Really Going On With the Busted vs McFly Tour | Matt Willis

In this solo episode, Matt Willis takes listeners behind the scenes of life on tour in “Backstage Battle.” Beyond the excitement of performing, he opens up about the real challenges he faces, managing his mental health, maintaining recovery, and sticking to routines that keep him grounded amid the pressures of life on the road.Matt also shares how he navigates the adrenaline of nightly performances, stays connected to his family, and celebrates small victories to avoid old, destructive habits. He reflects on revisiting environments that were once difficult, like hotel rooms and touring life, with honesty and self-awareness.A candid and inspiring look at the ongoing work of recovery, the importance of self-care, and the strength it takes to face your battles when no one else is watching.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 29, 202531 min

S3 Ep 8The Side of Larry Lamb You’ve Never Seen: Life Beyond Gavin & Stacey

This week’s guest is Larry Lamb, the beloved actor and storyteller who brings a lifetime of wisdom to the table. Known for his warmth and humor, Larry reflects on aging, resilience, and the simple yet powerful ways to live well as the years go by.In this episode, Larry opens up about the realities of growing older, the aches, the slower pace, and the temptation to dwell on worries, while showing why it’s far more rewarding to focus on gratitude, movement, and joy. From early mornings and daily exercise to his philosophy of “keeping moving forward,” Larry shares how staying active in body and mind fuels vitality and purpose.This is a candid, uplifting conversation about savouring each day, finding contentment in the present, and embracing the future with an open heart.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Heights 👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 22, 202543 min

S3 Ep 7Matt Willis on Why There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Parent

In this solo episode, Matt Willis reflects on parenting through the lens of recovery in “The Parent I’m Trying To Be.” With honesty and vulnerability, he shares how fatherhood has shaped his growth, from owning up to mistakes to breaking cycles from his own upbringing.This isn’t a guide to perfect parenting, but a candid reflection on presence over perfection, the value of everyday “junk time,” and allowing children to fully feel their emotions. Matt reflects on how parenting continues to shape him, teaching consistency, gratitude, and connection, while inviting listeners to share their own stories along the way.A heartfelt and relatable look at the imperfect but transformative journey of parenthood.Heights 👉 Join Matt. Whatever you’re mending, Heights has you covered. 20% off all products here: https://highpfrmc.com/otm-combo-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 15, 202527 min

S3 Ep 6Sum 41's Deryck Whibley: Talking Sobriety After My Near Death Experience | EXCLUSIVE

Deryck Whibley joins Matt for a powerful and unfiltered conversation about addiction, recovery, and the lessons hidden in life’s hardest moments.The singer-songwriter opens up about why he chose to write his book entirely in his own words, valuing authenticity over polish, and reflects on the role of memory, mistakes, and vulnerability in personal growth. He also shares openly about his struggles with addiction, the courage it takes to face dependency, and the idea that even injury and adversity can be unexpected gifts. From the importance of focusing on positivity and taking responsibility for your own happiness, to embracing uncertainty and letting go of old grievances, Deryck’s journey is a reminder that recovery is not just about survival, it’s about renewal, connection, and the courage to face the unknown.Heights 👉 Join Matt. Whatever you’re mending, Heights has you covered, 20% off all products here: https://highpfrmc.com/otm-combo-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 8, 202553 min

S3 Ep 5Matt Willis: Fearing Failure, Self-Sabotage and Relapse

What if failure was the key to success?In this solo episode, Matt Willis opens up about his own fear of failure, from the nerves of launching a new season to the deeper anxieties that have shaped his life. Drawing on Simon Sinek’s ideas and his own lived experience, Matt explores why fear of failure is universal, how it can hold us back, and how it can also drive us forward.With raw honesty, he shares practical ways to reframe failure as growth and explains why embracing it is essential for creativity, resilience, and real progress.Heights 👉 Join Matt. Whatever you’re mending, Heights has you covered, 20% off all products here:Audio Link: https://highpfrmc.com/otm-combo-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 1, 202517 min

S3 Ep 4What Happens When Success Becomes Your Addiction? Gary Stevenson’s Story

This week's guest is Gary Stevenson, a former top trader who knows firsthand what happens when success becomes an addiction. At the height of his career, he was winning big, but behind the scenes, his health, happiness, and humanity were breaking down.Gary pulls back the curtain on the trading world, revealing why “money = happiness” is a dangerous lie, how high-stakes trading mirrors gambling, and the hidden addiction spreading fast among young men. He shares the mental toll of life in a relentless game where even relationships become power plays, and the deep depression that can hide behind outward success.This is a raw, unfiltered look at the addictive side of ambition, and the personal cost of chasing wins at all costs.Heights 👉 Join Matt. Whatever you’re mending, Heights has you covered, 20% off all products here: https://highpfrmc.com/otm-combo-auNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 25, 202551 min

S3 Ep 3What Love Is Blind Taught Matt Willis About Connection and the Truth About Busted

In this raw solo episode, Matt Willis shares the untold side of his journey, from Busted fame to hitting rock bottom, and why real recovery only began when he stopped trying to do it alone.Matt opens up about the power of vulnerability, the fear of rejection, and the moment he had to admit relapse to his wife. He explores why connection is the one thing that saved him, and why healing isn’t possible without it.From the fear of rejection to the power of forgiveness, this is a raw and personal reflection on why we can’t do recovery alone, and how connection can change everything. Partners: Heights 👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 18, 202524 min

S3 Ep 2How a Phone Call on Air Changed Iain Lee’s Life Forever

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After decades in the spotlight as a broadcaster, comedian, and writer, Iain Lee found himself in a moment that would change and possibly save, more than one life.In this powerful episode, Iain recounts the night a caller to his late-night radio show shared that he had taken an overdose. What followed was a raw, real-time crisis that showed the power of being present and how connection, even through a radio line, can save someone’s life.Iain opens up about how that moment led him to retrain as a counsellor, his experience living with ADHD, and what it means to sit with people in their darkest moments. With vulnerability, insight, and deep empathy, this episode is a reminder that healing starts with being heard.Partners: Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTMNeed Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 11, 20251h 1m

S3 Ep 1Why I Had to Stop Everything: Matt Willis on Burnout & Growth

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We’re back! In this brand new season of On The Mend, Matt Willis opens up about what he’s been up to recently, alongside his struggles with overwhelm and the ongoing work of recovery. He shares what’s been helping, from hobbies to gratitude and sets the tone for a season full of raw, real conversations with guests, experts, and you. Expect new segments, deeper honesty, and powerful stories about what it really means to move forward.Need Support?Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.orgNarcotics Anonymous: na.orgAlcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.ukMental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.ukShout: https: giveusashout.orgIAPT: england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/Partners 🚨 Heights 👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/OTM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 4, 202528 min

S2 Ep 19Jordan Stephens on ADHD, Sobriety and Relearning Healthy Relationships

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This week’s guest is the musician, actor, writer, and podcaster Jordan Stephens.Jordan’s probably best known for Rizzle Kicks, the chart-topping duo he formed with his friend Harley Alexander-Sule, back in 2008.He's since released music as a solo artist, starred in various TV and film projects, published a children’s book, and now he’s written a memoir: Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak and Dogs.In this conversation the pair discuss education, the impact of overnight success, ADHD, medication and self-medication, as well as their shared interest in psychedelics and Jordan’s journey towards healthier relationships.For more information on some of the subjects Jordan mentioned, there are links below (including more on Professor Nutt and that toad venom).And Jordan WILL return to On The Mend. These two just have too much in common.Related links: Jordan’s websiteRizzle Kicks on InstagramMatt’s interview with Jordan on MTV FacesBRIT School bursariesAlan Watts on education Dr Gabor Maté The Anxious Generation by Joanthan HaidtJohann Hari’s episode of On The MendProfessor David Nutt and drug classificationA 2002 overview of the link between football hooliganism and ecstasyThe effects of the inhalation of dried toad secretion containing 5-MeO-DMTThe ongoing study at King’s College, London The Esther Perel quote was incorrectly attributed but she’s a fan of the person who said it, Terry Real: “Under patriarchy, you can be connected, or you can be powerful, but you can't be both at the same time because power is power over, not power with, it’s dominance. So, if you move into power, you lose connection. If you move into accommodation, you lose your power. I want to break that binary.”Donna Lancaster & The Bridge Retreat(01:02) Jordan’s childhood(05:28) BRIT School and creative education (11:48) Rizzle Kicks, Busted and dealing with overnight success (16:36) ADHD: from voice notes to diagnoses (plural)(20:34) ADHD: medication and self-medication (27:40) Pattern recognition and relationships(29:07) Sobriety and overcoming writer’s block(30:54) Managing social media use(35:52) Psychedelics (including dried toad secretion)(45:43) Pressure to achieve vs connection(47:02) Educating the next generation about relationships (54:15) Matt’s conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 9, 202457 min

S2 Ep 18Why I Took a Break From Social Media (Live Q&A)

Matt is back with another social media special episode! Since so many of you resonated with Part 1 (episode: My Honest Thoughts On Social Media) we're bringing you a Part 2, where Matt is diving deeper into his relationship with his mobile phone.Matt spills some details on why he feels the need to take a break from social media, how he's doing it, and why others should consider it too.Plus, since so many of you had your own ideas and experiences to share, Matt sat down in the second half of this episode to answer some questions from listeners! We hope you all enjoy and would love to hear your thoughts. Do leave a comment or review!Useful links:Part 1: My Honest Thoughts On Social MediaChanel 4 documentary: Swiped: The School that Banned Smartphones(0:00) Intro(0:13) Daily gratitude (3:15) Matt is currently in a good place!(4:53) Taking a break from social media (5:12) Matt’s TikTok obsession on tour(6:43) Matt’s detox from his mobile phone(8:00) The importance of boredom (9:13) Song writing with Busted (10:16) Answering your questions about social media(27:15) Introducing the burner phone(29:15) Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2, 202429 min

S2 Ep 17Building a Mental Health Movement with Dan Murray-Serter

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This week’s guest is the entrepreneur and mental health advocate Dan Murray-Serter.Dan has ten years’ experience of building up businesses but, also, of winding them down. He’s spoken publicly about his failures, as well as his personal experience with anxiety, insomnia, depression, burnout, body dysmorphia and bulimia. And the steps Dan took towards improving his own mental and physical health, led him to a new business in nutrition and supplements.Dan and Matt get quite deep in this conversation, which covers spirituality, mental health, ayahuasca. and much more.Related links:Heights SupplementsThe Dao De JingThe Power Of Now by Eckhart TolleThe Body Keeps The ScoreThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan Height(01:28) The benefits and joy to be found in a regular walk(04:43) A few of Dan’s favourite non-fiction books (06:10) Finding fulfillment and embracing spirituality (11:18) Dan on his upbringing and what he learned from his father(18:44) Living in the present and getting the balance right as an entrepreneur(20:26) Dan’s own mental health history (including insomnia) (24:02) Dan’s life-changing visit to a dietician (33:51) Dan’s experience with bulimia (42:38) Assisted psychedelic therapy and ayahuasca (56: 02) Finding your purpose (with a small p)(01:02:28) Managing comparison and social media (01:07:09) Matt’s outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 25, 20241h 9m

S2 Ep 16My Honest Thoughts on Social Media & Recovery

The secret is out… Matt Willis and his wife, Emma, are currently on a 3-week long social media break. They’re doing this alongside a group of year 8 students, whose experiment will be the star of an upcoming Channel 4 documentary.But what does Matt really think of all of this? Before the experiment, we caught up with Matt to ask his honest opinion on social media. Is it a good thing? Bad thing? What’s Matt’s personal experience with it? And how can we start to nurture a healthier relationship with social media?Let’s see how Matt’s opinions change over the course of the experiment. Stay tuned as we find out more in 3 weeks!We hope you enjoy the episode, and if you’d like to share your own thoughts on social, please leave a comment or review!Useful links:Chanel 4 documentary: Swiped: The School that Banned SmartphonesAnxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt(0:00) Intro(0:44) Daily gratitude(5:14) Matt’s weird relationship with social media(7:03) Do I need to know what’s trending?(8:58) Insecurities and social media(9:42) Social media is not real life(11:59) Engaging with followers(12:45) Social currency (14:21) Life is precious, so how are you using your time?(16:17) Kids don’t want social media(18:15) This is a real addiction we’re not taking seriously (19:05) So what can we do about it?(20:48) Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 202421 min